Important takeaways
- Grounded patch 1.4.5 removes the Microsoft account requirement for multiplayer on Steam.
- Steam users no longer need a Microsoft account to play regular multiplayer, but it is still required for crossplay and shared worlds.
- Patch 1.4.5 introduces a new crossplay toggle and the ability to disconnect Microsoft accounts from Steam.
Obsidian Entertainment has released Based patch 1.4.5, which brings native Steam support and makes updates to the game's multiplayer options. The patch is now available, and Based the developer asks players to update their game to get the latest improvements.
Based is a survival game from Obsidian Entertainment where players are shrunk down to the size of bugs and must survive in a suburban backyard full of giant bugs. The game mixes survival, crafting, exploration, and base building as players try to figure out why they've been miniaturized, while dealing with dangerous creatures like spiders and ants. Since launching in July 2020, Based has received regular updates and has been praised for its interesting twist on the survival genre.
One of the most important changes in this update is that players no longer need a Microsoft account to play multiplayer on Steam. Now they can host or join Based multiplayer games directly from their Steam friends list, making it easier for Steam users. However, the developers noted that a Microsoft account is still required for features like crossplay, shared worlds, and playgrounds. The update also adds a new crossplay toggle to the main menu, allowing players to switch between “Crossplay State” (for playing with people on other platforms) and “Steam Native State” (for Steam-only games). If players want to unlink their Microsoft account from their Steam account, they can now do so by going to the Options menu under the Games tab. At the bottom of the page, they will find the option to remove the link to their accounts.
This patch comes after the previous one Based update released in August, which added gyro direction support for Switch users. This feature makes ranged combat more precise by allowing players to use motion controls, making the game feel smoother.
Although the game still receives patches like 1.4.5, BasedThe Fully Yoked update was the last planned content update. Released earlier this year, it came with some cool new features like a New Game+ mode and new weapons and tools that can be unlocked after multiple playthroughs. The update also introduced crossplay, allowing Xbox, PC, PlayStation and Switch players to join multiplayer sessions together, opening up more ways to play with others.
Since the game no longer releases new content, it remains to be seen if one will Based the sequel will be developed in the future. Meanwhile, with patch 1.4.5, Steam players will have an easier way to join multiplayer games.
Grounded Update 1.4.5 Patch Notes
Steam Native Support
- Steam players no longer need a Microsoft account to play multiplayer
- Even if you're not signed in to a Microsoft account, you can host and join regular multiplayer sessions in the world with players from your Steam friends list
- Note: A Microsoft account is still required for Crossplay, Shared Worlds and Playgrounds
Changes:
- Added a Crossplay Toggle to the main menu to quickly switch between a “Crossplay State” and a “Steam Native State”
- Friends must be in the same “state” to see and join each other online
- Players can now unlink their Microsoft account from their Steam account
- Navigate by going to Options – Game tab – At the bottom you will see “Remove Link to Microsoft Account”
